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Our digestive health is foundational to our overall health and well-being. Research into gut health has been a hot topic in the last few years as scientists explore the "enteric brain," probiotics and our natural microflora, and the gut-brain connection. Nutritional supplements containing pancreatic digestive enzymes offer a natural solution to support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. In this blog post, we will take a look at the health benefits of digestive enzymes, how to use them, and who can benefit from incorporating them into their daily routine.
The Role of Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are naturally produced by the pancreas and play a crucial role in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the food we consume. These enzymes include amylase for carbohydrates, protease for proteins, and lipase for fats. When our body's production of these enzymes is compromised or when digestion is impaired, supplementing with digestive enzymes can provide valuable support. Most digestive enzyme products are made using extracts from pork or beef pancreas and are therefore not considered vegetarian or vegan. Vegetarian options include SpectraZyme Complete by Metagenics (contains milk) and Papaya Enzymes by Now. Papaya enzymes are not as powerful as pancreatic enzymes, butt many people still find them quite helpful.
Health Benefits of Pancreatic Digestive Enzymes:
Using Pancreatic Digestive Enzymes:
Digestive enzyme supplements are typically taken with meals to aid digestion. Ideally, take them with the first bite of food. Follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional. Incorporating these enzymes into your routine may help optimize digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort, especially for individuals who struggle with certain food intolerances.
Who Can Benefit from Pancreatic Digestive Enzymes:
Digestive enzymes may hold the enzymatic key (pun intended!) to unlocking improved digestion and overall well-being. By supporting the body's innate digestive processes, these enzymes offer a natural solution to enhance nutrient absorption, alleviate discomfort, and promote optimal digestive function. Whether you're looking to support healthy digestion, manage specific food sensitivities, or address digestive challenges, adding digestive enzymes into your wellness routine may lead to a healthier, more balanced, and more comfortable life. As with any supplement, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding digestive enzymes to your regimen to ensure they are appropriate for you.
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In the bustling chaos of modern life, achieving a peaceful night's sleep can sometimes feel like an elusive dream. Amidst the mountains of sleep-enhancing remedies, the gentle scent of lavender essential oil has stood the test of time as a natural aid for promoting relaxation and restful slumber. In this post, we will explore the benefits of diffusing lavender essential oil on sleep and how it can introduce tranquility into your bedtime routine.
Soothing Aromatherapy for Stress Relief:
Lavender essential oil is celebrated for its enchanting aroma, evoking a sense of calm and peace. Aromatherapy, through the diffusing of lavender essential oil, has been shown to alleviate stress and anxiety. By inhaling the aromatic molecules, the olfactory system sends signals to the brain, triggering the release of calming neurotransmitters like serotonin and promoting relaxation. As a result, diffusing lavender essential oil before bedtime can set the stage for a serene and stress-free sleep environment.
Inducing a Peaceful Slumber:
The tranquil scent of lavender essential oil is also known for its ability to promote better sleep quality. Research studies have demonstrated that diffusing lavender essential oil can enhance sleep onset, duration, and overall sleep quality. The Journal of Sleep Science (2017) reported that participants exposed to lavender essential oil experienced increased deep sleep (slow-wave sleep), signifying a more restorative and rejuvenating slumber.
Managing Insomnia and Restlessness:
Insomnia and restlessness can leave us tossing and turning in frustration, yearning for a night of uninterrupted sleep. However, the soothing effects of diffused lavender essential oil may be a natural remedy to address sleep disturbances. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2014) found that individuals who inhaled lavender essential oil experienced improved sleep quality and a reduction in insomnia symptoms.
Creating a Sleep Ritual:
Establishing a consistent bedtime ritual is vital for signaling the body that it's time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Incorporating lavender essential oil diffusing into your evening routine can be a wonderful way to create a calming sleep ritual. As your senses become attuned to the comforting scent of lavender, your mind and body will naturally ease into a more relaxed state, optimizing your chances of falling asleep faster and staying asleep throughout the night.
As we navigate the demands of daily life, prioritizing restful sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. The gentle embrace of lavender essential oil, through the art of diffusing, offers a soothing and aromatic pathway to a restorative slumber. Its stress-relieving properties, sleep-enhancing effects, and ability to tackle insomnia make it an enchanting ally for peaceful nights.
Whether you choose to use a diffuser, linen spray, or add a few drops to your bathwater, incorporating lavender essential oil into your sleep routine can be a transformative experience. While the benefits of lavender essential oil are well-documented, remember that individual responses may vary. If you have specific health concerns or are pregnant, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Embrace the tranquil embrace of lavender essential oil as you venture into dreamland, and let the soothing aroma be the lullaby that accompanies you on your journey to a night of blissful slumber. Sleep tight!
Keshavarz Afshar, M., Behboodi, M.Z., et al, Lavender Fragrance Essential OIl and the Quality of Sleep in Postpartum Women, Iran RedCrescent Med J, 2015 Apr 25;17(4):e25880
Lewith, G.T., Godfrey, A.D., et al, A Single-Blinded, Randomized Pilot Study Evaluating the Aroma of Lavandula angustifolia as aTreatment for Mild Insomnia, J Altern Complement Med, 2005 Aug;11(4):631-7
Lillehei, A.S., Halcon, L.L., et al, Effect of Inhaled Lavender and Sleep Hygiene on Self-Reported Sleep Issues: A Randomized ControlledTrial, J Altern Complement Med, 2015 Jul;21(7):430-8
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In the quest for optimal health and well-being, natural supplements have gained popularity for their potential to support various bodily functions. Among them, Natural D-Hist by Ortho Molecular stands out as a powerful blend specifically formulated to promote respiratory health and address seasonal discomfort. It's by far our most popular seasonal allergy product, with a decades-long track record. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key ingredients of Natural D-Hist and explore the remarkable health benefits they offer.
Understanding Natural D-Hist:
Natural D-Hist is a unique dietary supplement designed to support a healthy response to environmental factors that can affect the respiratory system. This comprehensive formula contains a blend of natural ingredients renowned for their allergy-fighting and immune-supporting properties.
Key Ingredients and Their Health Benefits:
Quercetin:
Quercetin is a potent flavonoid with antioxidant properties. In Natural D-Hist, quercetin plays a central role in stabilizing mast cells, which are immune cells involved in the release of histamine. By reducing histamine release, quercetin helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes associated with seasonal allergies.
Stinging Nettles Leaf (Urtica dioica):
Stinging nettles have been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to their anti-inflammatory properties. They contain compounds that inhibit the production of histamine, thereby providing natural relief from allergy symptoms. When combined with quercetin, the synergy amplifies their effects, making them a powerful duo in Natural D-Hist.
Bromelain:
Derived from pineapple stems, bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme known for its ability to break down proteins and reduce inflammation. In Natural D-Hist, bromelain assists in enhancing the absorption of quercetin, magnifying its effects and promoting respiratory health.
N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC):
NAC is an amino acid derivative that acts as a precursor to the production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant and detoxifier in the body. By promoting glutathione production, NAC aids in maintaining clear airways and supporting respiratory health.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid):
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient with potent antioxidant properties. In Natural D-Hist, vitamin C boosts the immune system and further supports the body's defense against allergens.
Rutin:
Rutin, another flavonoid found in Natural D-Hist, complements quercetin's action by reducing inflammation and preventing the release of histamine. This combination helps alleviate symptoms of seasonal allergies and supports overall respiratory health.
Natural D-Hist by Ortho Molecular is a thoughtfully crafted supplement that harnesses the power of nature's finest ingredients to support respiratory health and alleviate seasonal discomfort. With a harmonious blend of quercetin, stinging nettles, bromelain, NAC, vitamin C, and rutin, this supplement offers a comprehensive approach to promoting wellness. As with any dietary supplement, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Natural D-Hist into your wellness routine to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs. Embrace the power of nature and experience the benefits of Natural D-Hist on your journey towards better respiratory health.
Thich Nhat Hanh, a prominent Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, author, and peace activist, has left an indelible mark on the world with his profound teachings on mindfulness, compassion, and inner peace. Throughout his life, he exemplified the embodiment of his teachings, inspiring millions to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. In this blog post, we will delve into the life of Thich Nhat Hanh and explore the themes he wrote about in his books, which continue to resonate with readers worldwide.
A Brief History of Thich Nhat Hanh:
Thich Nhat Hanh was born on October 11, 1926, in central Vietnam. At a young age, he was deeply drawn to Buddhist teachings, and in his late teens, he became a novice monk. Throughout his studies, Thich Nhat Hanh focused on traditional Zen Buddhist practices, as well as the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism. He soon emerged as a bright and compassionate young monk, driven by a profound commitment to alleviate suffering and promote peace.
In the 1960s, during the Vietnam War, Thich Nhat Hanh's unwavering dedication to peace led him to actively engage in humanitarian efforts, advocating for non-violent solutions to the conflict. He coined the term "Engaged Buddhism," emphasizing the importance of applying Buddhist principles to address societal and political issues.
Themes Explored in Thich Nhat Hanh's Books and Teachings:
Mindfulness and Presence:
At the core of Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings lies the essence of mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in each moment. Through his books like "The Miracle of Mindfulness," he gently reminds readers to embrace the power of the present moment, urging them to let go of worries about the past or future. By cultivating mindfulness, individuals can transform their lives and connect more deeply with their inner selves.
Interconnectedness and Compassion:
Thich Nhat Hanh frequently emphasized the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of cultivating compassion towards oneself and others. In works such as "Peace Is Every Step" and "True Love," he eloquently conveyed the significance of embracing a compassionate heart and nurturing relationships based on love and understanding.
The Art of Peaceful Communication:
In his book "The Art of Communicating," Thich Nhat Hanh explores the profound impact of conscious and compassionate communication in our daily lives. He encourages readers to listen deeply and speak mindfully, fostering understanding and empathy in their interactions with others.
Mindful Living and Happiness:
In "The Art of Living" and "How to Love," Thich Nhat Hanh offers practical guidance on how to lead a life of mindfulness and simplicity. Through these works, he reminds readers to find joy in the little things, embrace gratitude, and cultivate happiness from within.
Healing and Transformation:
Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings often revolve around healing and transforming suffering. He encourages readers to acknowledge their pain and emotions without judgment, guiding them towards inner healing and growth.
Thich Nhat Hanh's legacy as a visionary Zen Buddhist monk and peace activist continues to inspire and transform lives across the globe. His teachings on mindfulness, interconnectedness, compassion, and the art of peaceful living resonate deeply with readers, offering profound insights into the human experience and the pursuit of true happiness.
By embracing the wisdom imparted through his books, individuals can learn to live with more awareness, empathy, and love, fostering positive change within themselves and their communities. Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings remind us that peace and happiness lie within our grasp, waiting to be unlocked through the transformative power of mindfulness and compassionate living. As we navigate the complexities of life, we can find solace and guidance in the timeless wisdom gifted to us by this revered spiritual leader.
At Castle Remedies, we carry a wide selection of Thich Nhat Hanh's books. You can browse them here:
Michigan, a state known for its rich biodiversity, offers a delightful array of wild berries waiting to be discovered and savored. Wildcrafting, the practice of foraging for wild edibles, connects us to nature's bounty and provides a unique opportunity to embrace the flavors of the great outdoors. In this blog post, we will explore several common berries found in Michigan that are safe to eat, the best seasons to look for them, tips on picking the ripest berries, and suggestions for recipes and storage.
Common Wild Berries in Michigan:
Blackberries (Rubus spp.): These dark and juicy berries grow abundantly in Michigan's woodlands and open spaces. Look for ripe blackberries from mid-July to early August.
Raspberries (Rubus spp.): Raspberries come in red, black, and yellow varieties. They thrive in sunny areas and are typically available from late June to early July for red raspberries, and late July to early August for black and yellow raspberries.
Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.): Blueberries are among the most beloved wild berries in Michigan. They grow in acidic soils and can be found from mid-July to early September.
Elderberries (Sambucus spp.): Elderberries, commonly found in wetlands and along forest edges, ripen in late summer, typically from August to September.
Serviceberries (Amelanchier spp.): Also known as Juneberries, these sweet berries resemble blueberries and can be found in early to mid-June.
Picking the Best Berries:
Recipes and Tips for Storage:
Fresh Berry Salad: Combine a variety of freshly picked wild berries with a drizzle of honey or a splash of citrus juice for a refreshing and nutritious summer salad.
Wild Berry Smoothie: Blend a mix of wild berries with yogurt or plant-based milk for a delicious and energizing breakfast or snack.
Wild Berry Crumble: Create a delectable berry crumble using wild berries, oats, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Bake until golden and enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Berry Infused Water: Add a handful of fresh berries to a pitcher of water for a naturally flavored and hydrating beverage.
Storage Tips:
Safety Precautions:
Wildcrafting edible berries in Michigan is an adventure that connects us to the natural abundance of the state. From juicy blackberries to sweet serviceberries, each berry offers a unique flavor and nutrient profile to explore. When foraging, respect nature by only taking what you need and leaving some for wildlife and future foragers. With mindful foraging and creative recipes, you can savor the flavors of Michigan's wild bounty and nourish your body with nature's delicious gifts.
Dried calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a vibrant and versatile herb that has been treasured for centuries due to its remarkable healing properties. Rich in flavonoids, essential oils, and antioxidants, this golden flower has become a favorite among herbal enthusiasts for its numerous applications in skin care and wound healing. Let's explore the various ways you can harness the power of dried calendula through infused herbal oils, herbal tinctures, poultices, and more.
Calendula-Infused Herbal Oil
Calendula-infused herbal oil is a gentle yet potent remedy for skin ailments like cuts, scratches, burns, rashes, and dry, itchy skin. To create this natural elixir, simply fill a jar with dried calendula flowers and cover them with a carrier oil like olive, almond, or jojoba oil. Seal the jar and allow it to sit in a warm, sunny spot for about 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days. The resulting golden oil can be used directly on cuts, wounds, and dry or irritated skin to soothe, moisturize, and promote healing.
Calendula Herbal Tincture
A calendula tincture is another effective preparation that concentrates the herb's healing properties. By steeping dried calendula in alcohol or glycerin for several weeks, you can create a potent liquid extract that can be applied topically to promote the healing of wounds, minor burns, and rashes. The tincture can also be taken orally to support overall skin health and boost the immune system.
Calendula Poultice
For immediate relief and accelerated healing of wounds and insect bites, a calendula poultice can work wonders. Gently crush dried calendula flowers and mix them with warm water to form a thick paste. Apply the poultice directly to the affected area and cover it with a clean cloth. Leave it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. The poultice's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties will help reduce swelling and promote tissue regeneration.
Calendula-Infused Salve
Create a soothing and nourishing salve by combining calendula-infused oil with beeswax and a few drops of lavender essential oil while gently heating in a double boiler until beeswax is completely melted. Carefully pour into jars and allow to cool. Once the mixture solidifies, you'll have a convenient and portable remedy to use on dry skin, chapped lips, and minor cuts. The salve acts as a protective barrier, locking in moisture and speeding up the healing process.
Dried calendula is a true herbal treasure with a myriad of benefits for skin care and wound healing. Whether in the form of infused herbal oils, tinctures, poultices, or salves, this golden herb has been cherished for its potent therapeutic properties throughout history. By incorporating dried calendula into your natural health and skincare routine, you can experience accelerated healing, as well as the radiant beauty it brings to your skin.
Note: It's important to perform a patch test before using any new herbal preparation, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. If you have any existing medical conditions or are pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before using calendula or any other herbal remedies internally.
Herbal baths are a great way to relax at the end of the day. Adding herbs to your bath routine provides several health benefits ranging from relaxing aromatherapy to improved circulation, detoxification and skin health. Read on for recipes and recommendations about our favorite herbal baths.
For a simple herbal bath, we first prepare a concentrated herbal "tea" to add to our regular bathwater. We recommend against adding dried herbs directly to the bathwater, for two reasons: (1) the water temperature is not high enough to draw out the full medicinal benefits of the herbs, and (2) the herbal material can easily clog your drain if you're not careful to skim it out before draining the tub.
For making the herbal tea, a good rule of thumb is to use 1 ounce of dried herb for each quart of water. If you don't have a scale handy, use 1 TBSP of dried herb per 8 ounces of water. We recommend preparing at least two cups of herb-infused water to add to your bathwater. For a stronger bath, use four or more cups.
For delicate, aromatic herbs like chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, yarrow or rose: pour freshly boiled water over the herbs, cover (to prevent those precious essential oils from evaporating), and steep for around 10 minutes. Strain the herbal material out. Draw your bath and add the infused herbal tea water to your bathwater.
For hardier, woody, or resinous herbs like calendula, ginger, roots or tree barks: get an appropriately sized sauce pan or stock pot, fill with your measured water, and bring to a boil on the stove. Once water is boiling, reduce heat to low for a gentle simmer. Add your herbs, cover, and stir occasionally for 20 minutes. Take off heat, carefully strain, and add your The technical name for this process is making an herbal "decoction." This method helps break down hard herbal materials like barks, roots and seeds, and draws out the medicinal properties in resinous herbs. Add the strained liquid to your bathwater.
There are several optional additions you that can complement your herbs and elevate your bath. Most popular are probably bath salts like epsom salt, dead sea salt, or himalayan pink salt. Salts, especially epsom salt, can help relax sore muscles. Oats are another classic addition which adds an extra skin-soothing dimension. We recommend whole rolled oats contained in a muslin bag. Powdered milk (cow's milk or coconut milk) is gaining popularity as a bathing ingredient - it's said that the lactic acid in cow's milk helps gently exfoliate dry skin. Another nice addition is clay - bentonite or French green clay are said to provide a mineral-rich bathing experience and also promote detoxification. When adding clay, first mix the clay with warm water until fully dissolved, then add to the bath. Anywhere between 1/4 cup to 1 cup of clay is recommended per bath.
Chamomile relaxes the mind, body and spirit, and soothes the skin. It can be particularly helpful for itchy, red, or rashy skin. It has a pleasant apple-like aroma that has a wide appeal. It is very gentle and safe, making it a great choice for children of all ages, including infants.
Calendula is a staple skin healing herb. It helps speed wound healing, especially cuts and scrapes. Calendula improves the circulation of lymph, calms dry skin, and also has anti-microbial action. A Calendula bath would be appropriate to help ease skin irritations like rashes, bug bites, topical yeast infections, cat scratches, and extremely dry, cracked skin.
Lavender is another calming herb that is perfect for a unwinding after a long day. Lavender helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension. Studies have shown that diffusing lavender essential oil in the bedroom can help people fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly. It has a stronger, medicinal and floral scent compared to Chamomile. A mixture of the two is quite nice. Lavender also has a general cleansing and antimicrobial activity.
Ginger is a warming herb that is helpful for alleviating muscle pain and soreness. It has a pleasant spicy, earthy scent that has a grounding and centering effect. A ginger bath would be recommended for anyone with stiff, painful, achey muscles or joints.
A recently published scientific trial concluded that using nasal saline irrigation twice daily greatly reduced severity, risk of hospitalization and death in high risk Covid-19 patients. Study participants started the nasal saline irrigation within 24 hours of testing positive for Covid-19 on a PCR test. The study found that participants who used the nasal irrigation were over 8 times less likely to be hospitalized than the national rate.
What exactly is "nasal saline irrigation"?
In basic terms, it's the process of rinsing the inside of your nose and sinuses with specially prepared salt water. We recommend using a neti pot and neti salt. View our collection here. We've known for a long time that using a neti pot during a respiratory infection or seasonal allergies can help relieve symptoms by physically flushing bacteria, viruses, and pollen out of the body. Click here to read step-by-step instructions on how to perform nasal saline irrigation.
Limitations of the study
Keep in mind, while this research article was published in August 2022, the actual study took place between September 24th and December 21, 2020, which was (1) during the original Covid-19 strain, and (2) before any of the vaccines became available. It would be interesting to expand and repeat the study to see how well nasal saline irrigation performs against the newer strains, as well as comparing vaccinated versus unvaccinated participants.
Our takeaways
Nasal saline irrigation is an easy, affordable and accessible health intervention and is safe for almost all ages, including children as young as 2 years old. The use of a saline irrigation twice daily for 14 days during a Covid-19 infection is likely to reduce viral load and improve health outcomes. It may be more effective for unvaccinated individuals; further testing would be needed to determine exactly how effective nasal saline irrigation is for vaccinated individuals. However, we don't think it could hurt for anyone to use a neti pot while sick.
Click the "read" button to view the full text of the study.
In southeast Michigan, we've actually had a pretty good summer so far - not too many mosquitoes, in my experience. They're still present, though, and at least a few bites seem to be inevitable every year. I'd like to share one of our most popular and useful remedies with you: Ledum.
Homeopathic Ledum is made from a plant known as Marsh Labrador Tea or Wild Rosemary. The full latin name is Ledum palustre. In traditional herbalism, the crushed leaves of Ledum palustre are applied topically for bug bites and stings. In homeopathic literature, Ledum is recommended for minor puncture wounds as well as bug bites and stings. A specific indication is that the area feels better with a cold application. Think about those swollen, hot, itchy bug bites that feel relieved by pressing a can of cold soda or bag of frozen peas against it.
You can take Ledum homeopathic pellets orally or topically. For oral use, 30c potency and 3-5 pellets under the tongue as needed when symptoms arise. For topical use, we recommend StingStop gel by Boericke & Tafel.
Using both oral and topical simultaneously offers a nice two-pronged approach. If I had to choose just one, I'd go for the StingStop gel. The gel feels comforting and cooling and it's really impressive how quickly it works.
Personally, I'm one of those people who are very sensitive to mosquito bites. For me, an untreated bite can take several weeks to completely resolve and disappear. Probably because I can't stop itching it! In my experience, StingStop stops the itching within 60 seconds of application and lasts for between 6 - 8 hours and the bite usually disappears within a couple of days.
You can use StingStop and Ledum pellets for any type of bug bite, including mosquitoes, bee stings, spider bites, chiggers, ticks (still go see your doctor if you find an attached tick!), and more.
That reminds me, I recently got some chigger bites at my waistband while I was mowing at my community garden. Chigger bites are notoriously itchy and irritating. I used StingStop and it was so effective, I forgot about them! The rashy bites resolved in about a week.
Ledum is one of those remedies that's great to have on hand. Many of our clients stock it in their first aid chest. It's also a great "ambassador" remedy. Everyone gets bug bites. Ledum works so quickly and effectively, it yells: "Homeopathy works!"
Figure 1: green poison ivy leaves
Figure 2: Reddish-brown poison ivy leaves
Figure 3: Red poison ivy leaves vining up a tree
Homeopathic Treatment: Rhus Tox pellets are used orally for poison ivy rash. 30C potency taken 1 to 6 times daily is a typical dosage. Take as needed – if the symptoms flare, take a dose. 200C or 1M potency can be used for more severe cases. A dose is 3-5 pellets dissolved under the tongue. Take on a clean palate, at least 15 minutes away from food or drink (other than water). Alternatively, you can use Hyland’s Poison Ivy and Poison Oak Relief tablets. This product contains Rhus Tox along with two other homeopathic remedies that target common symptoms of poison ivy rash.
Topical Creams and Sprays: Castle Remedies carries several natural options for topical relief. Quantum’s Itch Nix Gel contains a combination of herbal extracts, essential oils, and B vitamins in a soothing aloe vera base. Tecnu Rash Relief Spray combines the antihistamine diphenhydramine with herbal extracts of plantain, grindelia, tea tree oil and white thyme oil. Herb Pharm’s Soothing Oak and Ivy Spray contains menthol with herbal extracts of sassafras and grindelia. Some people find relief with topically applied Lavender essential oil – just make sure it’s diluted properly. You can add 15 - 20 drops of Lavender oil to ¼ cup aloe vera gel for a nice DIY topical.
Oil Removal: It’s important to wash away poison ivy oils thoroughly and quickly. Castle Remedies carries two Tecnu products for this purpose. Tecnu Outdoor Skin Cleanser is a gentle, milky non-foaming cleanser that can be used on skin, tools, pets, clothes, and shoes. Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy & Oak Scrub is a bit heavier duty and can be used to exfoliate and scrub oils off the skin. We highly recommend having these products on hand. If you must go purchase them after exposure, it’s probably too late to prevent a rash.
Know When To Get Help: Seek immediate medical attention if (1) the rash covers a large area of the body, (2) if the rash is affecting eyes, ears, nose, throat, mucus membranes, or genitals, (3) if poison ivy smoke has been inhaled, (4) if the rash is not improving.
Before surgery:
To prepare the body for surgery and calm the nerves, perform the following meditation:
Find a quiet place where you can rest in a comfortable position. Take time to relax as much as possible. Close your eyes. Focus your attention on your breath, following the inhalation and exhalation. Allow your mind to enter a state of relaxation/prayer. Imagine the surgery happening, bringing your attention to the area of the body that will be operated on. This does not have to be anatomically correct. Imagine that area opening and gratefully receiving the loving, healing hands of the surgeon. The surgeon who has performed this operation many, many times and holds intentions of helping and healing. Imagine each step of the surgery being performed with grace and loving care as you are being healed.
After surgery:
To promote ideal healing, perform the following meditation:
Find a quiet place where you can rest in a comfortable position. Close your eyes. Take time to relax as much as possible. Focus your attention on your breath, following the inhalation and exhalation. Allow your mind to enter a state of relaxation/prayer. Bring your attention to the area of the body that needs healing. Imagine that body part closing and healing together perfectly.
Add to above the following steps for surgeries with risk of blood loss (abdominal, etc.)
Right before surgery:
Bring your attention to the area to be operated on. Imagine your blood vessels clamping down and closing to reduce the flow of blood during the procedure.
After surgery:
Bring your attention to the area to be operated on. Imagine your blood vessels relaxing, opening, enlarging, and allowing normal flow. Imagine white blood cells flowing into the area like a sponge, mopping up inflammation, repairing and restoring the area.
In the last 20 years, tick populations have increased dramatically in Michigan. Our relatively temperate weather allows ticks to reproduce and spread with ease. The last few years have been particularly bad, with ticks encroaching into more urban areas. Nowadays, ticks can be found at your local park and even in well-kept backyards. In this blog, we'll talk about ways to avoid or repel ticks and what to do if you get bitten.
Identifying Ticks
First, let's meet our most common ticks in Michigan: the dog tick, the deer tick, and the Lone Star tick.
Overwhelmingly, the most common tick in Michigan is the dog tick. It has a wide distribution and feeds on small animals like mice and birds. They enjoy hitching a ride on dogs and humans, too. Deer ticks are prevalent but less common, and are most often found along the western coast of Michigan. However, in the last five years, deer ticks have begun spreading eastward. The Lone Star tick is a relative newcomer but has quickly spread out to all areas of Michigan.
All ticks are capable of carrying and transmitting several nasty diseases. The dog tick can carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever; deer ticks can transmit Lyme disease; and Lone Star ticks can cause a condition known as "alpha-gal," which causes the person to become allergic to red meat.
Where Are They Found?
Ticks are found wherever their hosts frequent. Wooded areas, brushlands, and areas with tall grass are often populated by ticks. Anywhere that small mammals like mice and rabbits can live, you're sure to find ticks. Deer ticks are more commonly found in the woods. However, it's becoming common to find ticks in more residential areas and well-mowed urban backyards as well.
How To Repel and Prevent
What To Do If You've Been Bitten
First step: don't panic! The odds of catching a tick-borne disease in the first 24 hours of a bite are very low. The most important thing is removing the tick in a calm and safe manner. There are a lot of folk methods for removing ticks, but most of them are unsafe because they can cause the tick to regurgitate potentially tainted blood back into your body. Do not attempt to smother or use heat to remove the tick. Use a product like a Tick Key or tick spoon, or needle-nose tweezers. If using tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the base as possible and slowly but steadily pull upwards without twisting or squeezing. If any parts of the tick remain, try to remove them carefully using tweezers. If you can't get it all out, disinfect the area and wait for the skin to heal.
Contact your family doctor for advice. Some practitioners will recommend a course of antibiotics to help prevent Lyme and other infections.
A natural approach: In addition to your doctor's recommendations, consider taking a dose of homeopathic Ledum 200c, which helps with insect bites. You can also apply disinfectant essential oils to area like tea tree or lavender. Echinacea tincture or capsules taken internally can also help to stimulate a strong immune response (but skip the Echinacea if you have a pre-existing immune condition).
Watch for any new rashes, irritations, or any unusual symptoms within the next month. Early signs of infection often include fever-like symptoms. Contact your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
Saving and Testing Ticks
Consider saving the tick and getting it tested through the mail by a company like TickCheck. You can preserve a tick by taping it to a piece of paper, putting it in an airtight container, or storing it in alcohol. Getting your tick tested can help give peace of mind, or help to inform you and your doctor about the next best steps of treatment.
CDC Recommendations & Resources
The CDC website has an extremely comprehensive database of information about ticks. Click here to view it in a new window.
